Hughes is set to make his debut against Dunfermline on Saturday and is delighted to have earned a deal after being released by Norwich and then failing to win new terms following a short spell with Motherwell.

He told the Daily Record: "It's been pretty difficult for me since I left Norwich in September and while I had a spell at Motherwell, nothing materialised so I am delighted to get fixed up at Aberdeen.

Hard

"There are a few experienced players in a similar situation and out of the game. It's hard but that's just the way the game is just now with finances dictating what's available to sign players.

"I didn't know Craig Brown before but I did know Archie Knox when I was a kid at Rangers and he was assistant manager.

"Both have bags of experience and I'm looking forward to working with them. They made it clear they wanted me at Aberdeen and it means a lot to a player when the manager tells you that."

Aberdeen boss Brown is delighted to have added to his midfield options, saying: "We signed Hughes because we needed to bolster the midfield in the short and long term. He's played at a high level and will be comfortable here."